Struggling with Sleep: A College Student's Battle with Insomnia
Difficulty falling asleep for more than six months? Hello, doctor. I am a college student in my second year. Since I entered university, I have been experiencing intermittent difficulties falling asleep, occurring about 3-4 times a week. Recently, I have been struggling to fall a...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: Your prolonged insomnia has reached the clinical criteria for insomnia disorder, and it is advisable to seek medical attention for further differential diagnosis and appropriate treatment. You can seek medical help without needing support from family members. If y...[Read More] Struggling with Sleep: A College Student's Battle with Insomnia
Understanding Mental Health: When to Seek Counseling and Support
Psychological counseling Hello Dr. Wu, I am currently about to enter my sophomore year. When I was in first grade, I joined the swimming team, and the coach was very strict. Due to my insufficient skills, I was forced to be assigned to that coach's group. The coach often spl...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, user: Your condition is currently very serious, and you need to seek treatment at a psychiatric facility as soon as possible rather than just counseling. Dr. Wu Enliang[Read More] Understanding Mental Health: When to Seek Counseling and Support
Is My Anxiety About Cleanliness Due to the Pandemic?
I'm not sure if it's excessive worry? Hello, Doctor. Since the beginning of the pandemic, I have developed a feeling that everything I touch or come into contact with is unclean, which makes me want to wash things, such as my clothes. I often feel the need to wash items...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: 1. Is this overthinking and overreacting due to the pandemic? A: Indeed, many people (including you and me) have experienced varying degrees of anxiety due to the pandemic, which is a normal self-protective mechanism in animals. 2. Am I being too extreme in my...[Read More] Is My Anxiety About Cleanliness Due to the Pandemic?
Am I Overthinking? Understanding Anxiety and Its Impact on Health
Suspecting whether you are experiencing excessive anxiety? Whenever I experience minor health issues, I start to worry that it might be something serious. I can't help but Google my symptoms, and even after reading articles that say certain problems have a low probability of...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, internet user: It is indeed anxiety that causes obsessive thinking. If it significantly disrupts your daily life and relaxation techniques do not provide relief, it is advisable to seek treatment at a mental health facility.[Read More] Am I Overthinking? Understanding Anxiety and Its Impact on Health
Navigating Emotional Trauma: Living with Chronic Illness and Misunderstanding
Traumatic emotions I was diagnosed at the age of 23 with atypical Crohn's disease. Within a month, I lost over thirty kilograms. I visited numerous hospitals and was only diagnosed with gastric and duodenal ulcers. My condition worsened, and one day I woke up unable to walk....
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, online friend: As a fellow patient with chronic autoimmune diseases, I completely understand the pain of living with a chronic illness, and the added suffering of being misunderstood or accused of faking it. I recommend that such traumatic experiences be addressed through ...[Read More] Navigating Emotional Trauma: Living with Chronic Illness and Misunderstanding
Understanding the Risks of GERD from Antidepressants: A Patient's Perspective
Medication-induced gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Past Medical History: 1. Stress ulcer (lesser curvature of the stomach) 2. Diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome Question: If [Grade A esophagitis] and [non-H. pylori gastritis] are ignored for a long time, could ...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: Subject Q: If [Grade A esophagitis] and [non-H. pylori gastritis] are ignored for a long time, could the consequences lead to esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, or even worse? Yes, chronic inflammation can indeed lead to carcinogenesis, so it is advisable to seek ...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of GERD from Antidepressants: A Patient's Perspective
Understanding Cognitive Decline: Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Cognitive decline Hello Doctor: I feel like something is off with me lately... A customer purchased items totaling 850 NT dollars, and when they gave me 1000 NT dollars, I should have returned 150 NT dollars. However, at that moment, I couldn't remember how much money I was ...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: Have you been experiencing anxiety, worry, and lack of sleep that is affecting your ability to concentrate lately? If these issues persist, it is advisable to seek consultation at a mental health facility. Dr. Wu Enliang[Read More] Understanding Cognitive Decline: Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Am I Overthinking My Health? Understanding Anxiety and Its Solutions
Suspecting whether you are experiencing excessive anxiety? Whenever I experience minor health issues, I start to worry that it might be something serious. I can't help but Google my symptoms, and even when I read articles stating that certain problems are rare or unlikely fo...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, online friend: I also believe it could be an anxiety issue. There are some self-help methods for anxiety, such as relaxation techniques and increased physical activity. If these methods are not effective, you can download the Mood Meter app to assess your emotional state a...[Read More] Am I Overthinking My Health? Understanding Anxiety and Its Solutions
Understanding Anxiety Medication: When to Seek Psychiatric Help
Use of Anxiolytic Medications Hello, doctor. I previously raised the question of whether my chest tightness is due to autonomic nervous system dysregulation. I have undergone various organ examinations, all of which showed no abnormalities. The context in which the symptoms occur...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, online user: Clonazepam is merely a sedative, and a better approach is to use it occasionally as needed. It is a symptomatic treatment rather than a curative one, and long-term fixed use is not advisable to avoid dependency. If symptoms improve after relaxation and stress ...[Read More] Understanding Anxiety Medication: When to Seek Psychiatric Help
Concerns About Medication: Managing OCD While Pursuing Medical School
There are many concerns regarding medications? Hello, Dr. Wu. I am a repeat examinee who has always wanted to enter medical school, but I have obsessive-compulsive disorder. I want to stabilize my condition with medication, but I am concerned about the unpredictability of the dru...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello: 1. I am concerned that taking medication might affect my concentration or memory (for example, making me forget things easily) or make my mind feel dull, potentially impacting my IQ or making me feel less intelligent. I would like to ask the doctor if these situations ca...[Read More] Concerns About Medication: Managing OCD While Pursuing Medical School
Am I Anxious, Experiencing Munchausen Syndrome, or Just Normal?
Am I experiencing anxiety, Munchausen syndrome, or another condition? Or am I just normal? I have a very stubborn and extreme personality, and I struggle with reading social cues; I tend to speak very directly. I was severely reprimanded by a teacher for two years, and later, fol...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello: It's not Munchausen syndrome, but there are indeed issues with anxiety and depression. It seems to have significantly affected your life. Just as you would see a doctor for a physical fever, it's important to address emotional distress as well! I recommend discus...[Read More] Am I Anxious, Experiencing Munchausen Syndrome, or Just Normal?
Struggling with Grief: Living in the Shadow of Loss and Regret
Living in the past? Hello, doctor. I have been suffering from a mental illness for over 20 years, starting from when I was 20 years old. My mother passed away in 2007, and I have been unable to move on! Over a decade has passed, and I am still living in the past, especially durin...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, internet user: These feelings of guilt, anger, and resentment can cause significant disruptions in your life. It is advisable to discuss these issues with a psychiatrist or psychologist who has been caring for you long-term. Clinically, I have seen many individuals improve...[Read More] Struggling with Grief: Living in the Shadow of Loss and Regret
Struggling with Sexual Orientation: Coping with Family Pressure and Secrets
The concealment of sexual orientation issues is becoming increasingly overwhelming? Hello, doctor. Due to my sexual orientation as a homosexual, I have never had a girlfriend. However, as I have reached the age for marriage, my family and relatives frequently urge me to get marri...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: You should live your own life rather than letting it be controlled by your parents or others. It's advisable to gradually help them understand your sexual orientation. If communication proves difficult, you still need to live your own life. Same-sex marriage ...[Read More] Struggling with Sexual Orientation: Coping with Family Pressure and Secrets
Managing Anxiety Medication Timing for Driving Test Success
Worried that the medication may not be effective after a long time has passed since taking it? I get so nervous during my motorcycle road test that my hands and feet shake, and my hands feel weak. I have Xanax 10mg, but my next test is a backup, and I don't know what time it...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, online user: These medications do have some anxiolytic effects, but their use requires a detailed assessment of the individual's condition, considering both the benefits and risks, as well as potential side effects. For example, medications like Sertraline may trigger...[Read More] Managing Anxiety Medication Timing for Driving Test Success
Do Antidepressants Affect Autonomic Nervous System Function?
Do antidepressant medications affect the autonomic nervous system? Hello Dr. Wu, I recently had a health check-up, and the report mentioned that my autonomic nervous system shows signs of premature aging (with a low health index regarding cardiac load under external stress) and t...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, internet user: These medications are all used simultaneously to treat autonomic nervous system disorders. Such levels indicate that anxiety is too high, so it's important to focus on relaxation. There is no need to consult another physician; you can simply ask your or...[Read More] Do Antidepressants Affect Autonomic Nervous System Function?
Is Chest Tightness Related to Anxiety or Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction?
Is chest tightness considered a disorder of the autonomic nervous system? Hello, doctor. I originally had symptoms of rapid heartbeat and chest tightness due to hyperthyroidism, but after developing a regular exercise routine and taking my medication on time, my symptoms have sig...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, online friend: The symptoms of chest tightness and shallow breathing are indeed related to your anxiety disorder and can be considered a form of autonomic nervous system dysregulation. It is advisable to seek support in sharing the responsibilities of childcare to alleviat...[Read More] Is Chest Tightness Related to Anxiety or Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction?
Navigating Medication Challenges in Schizophrenia Treatment
Medication issues Hello, doctor. Since April 2018, I have felt that something is not right with me. I have been obsessively thinking about past events or forcing myself to think about things, which has made me very unhappy upon waking up, and I realized that I was in trouble beca...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, internet user: It is recommended to continue collaborating with your trusted physician. The effectiveness of long-acting injections and oral medications is comparable, or even better (since there is no issue of forgetting to take the medication), making it a good option. D...[Read More] Navigating Medication Challenges in Schizophrenia Treatment
Understanding Throat Discomfort: Is It Related to Anxiety or GERD?
Throat issues Hello, Dr. Wu. For the past six months, I have been experiencing a sensation of swelling and tightness in my throat (within a few centimeters below the Adam's apple), which feels somewhat like being lightly struck around the area of the Adam's apple. I do ...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, netizen: Dysautonomia can indeed present with similar symptoms, commonly referred to as "globus sensation." It is advisable to consider seeking medical attention at a mental health facility. Dr. Wu Enliang[Read More] Understanding Throat Discomfort: Is It Related to Anxiety or GERD?
Can Depression Medication Be Prescribed as a Chronic Prescription?
Can I switch to a chronic prescription for medication? Hello, doctor. A family member has been taking medication for depression (anxiety, panic, insomnia) for nearly twenty years (picking up prescriptions every 28 days at a major hospital). Recently, they have also developed epil...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, online user: Theoretically, a chronic prescription should be possible, but the physician may have their clinical judgment, or some hospitals may have internal regulations that restrict the issuance of prescriptions for controlled substances, etc. Dr. Wu Enliang.[Read More] Can Depression Medication Be Prescribed as a Chronic Prescription?
Understanding Mood Swings: Bipolar Disorder, Split Personality, and Antisocial Traits
Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, antisocial personality disorder? I recently experienced a scam and lost over a hundred thousand. Since the incident, I've been feeling a significant internal conflict, as if my mind is about to explode, like I have split personalities. Someti...
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, internet user: Bipolar disorder, dissociative identity disorder, antisocial personality disorder, and similar conditions are generally long-term issues and typically do not arise from a single stressful event. I believe this incident has significantly impacted your emotion...[Read More] Understanding Mood Swings: Bipolar Disorder, Split Personality, and Antisocial Traits